Arizona head coach Ken Whisenhunt is optimistic that Highsmith's teammate Gerald Hayes (back), who missed Wednesday's practice, will be able to play in Sunday's game, the Cardinals' official site reports.

Depth guy at linebacker could solidify his place on the 53-man roster with a strong training camp. Highsmith doesn't appear to have a clear path to a starting linebacker job anytime sooner, however, so his impact will be on special teams in the short term.

2009

Highsmith has endured a wild ride over the last couple of years. He was initially projected as a first-round pick in the 2008 draft, however, a slow 40-yard dash at the combine caused him to be undrafted. The Cardinals picked him up and he earned a spot on their 53-man roster last year, but a torn right ACL ended Highsmith’s season in November. He faces a tough battle to be healthy and productive enough in order to make the Cardinals’ 53-man roster this season. If he does, he should play mainly on special teams.

2008

Highsmith, an undrafted free agent, is viewed as a long-term project. If he makes the team, he will be a backup.